Repairing Guides

how to repair a leaking single control shower faucet

by Constance Stanton II Published 2 years ago Updated 1 year ago
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Method 1.

  • 1. Turn off your water valve before beginning. Your water valve controls the flow of water to your shower. It may be located in your bathroom or your ...
  • 2. Remove your shower handle using a screwdriver. The screw will be in the center of a knob handle or on the side of a curved handle. Choose a ...
  • 3. Use your screwdriver to remove the faceplate. The faceplate is the metal piece that's behind your handle. Fit the screwdriver tip into the screws ...
  • 4. Pull the metal sleeve off of the shower valve that’s behind the faceplate. The shower valve looks like part of a metal pipe that connects to your ...

Full Answer

How do you fix a leaking 2 handle shower faucet?

For a 2-handle shower faucet, replace the washer in the handle on the side that’s leaking. However, you may need to call a professional plumber if your DIY fix doesn't work. Turn off your water valve before beginning. Your water valve controls the flow of water to your shower. It may be located in your bathroom or your basement.

How to fix a leaking shower head with a cartridge valve?

To fix a leaking shower head, replace the old cartridge with an identical new one. In this article, we’ll focus on fixing a cartridge-style faucet with a shower valve cartridge replacement. Cartridge valves have a single handle and operate when the cartridge slides in and out.

Can a leaky faucet be repaired?

Repairing a Leaky Faucet It’s normal for your shower to drip for a few minutes after the water is turned off. But a steady flow may indicate a leak. Replacing your faulty hardware is a common fix, but leaks can also be stoppedby repairing your valve or stem. Here’s a quick rundown of simple repairs.

What is the HomeAdvisor shower faucet repair&replace guide?

HomeAdvisor's Shower Faucet and Valve Repair & Replace Guide instructs users on how to repair leaky single, double or triple handle faucets, how to replace diverter valve cartridge and how to install your new delta or moen faucet/valve kit. Resource Center Home Spaces Appliances Bathrooms Countertops Flooring Fireplaces & Chimneys Kitchens Siding

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How do you fix a leaky single handle shower faucet?

0:172:38Repairing a Leaky Single Handle Tub/Shower Ball-Type FaucetYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipTurn off the main water supply to your home. For an obstacle remove the index button by prying offMoreTurn off the main water supply to your home. For an obstacle remove the index button by prying off with the screwdriver. Then unscrew the handle screw. And remove the handle.

How do I fix a single shower valve?

0:171:42Shower Repair : How Do I Replace a Single Control Shower Faucet?YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipRemove any sketches that may be in place. And this particular one has a small little keeper or aMoreRemove any sketches that may be in place. And this particular one has a small little keeper or a horseshoe-shaped pin. May need different tools sometimes some specialized tools to get this out now.

Why won't my shower faucet stop dripping?

When water drips or drizzles from a shower head, there is a problem with the shower faucet (valve). In most cases, inner seals are worn, or parts have become corroded or clogged with hard water deposits. And the rubber O-rings and gaskets that seal connections between moving metal parts wear down with time and use.

Why is my single handle faucet dripping?

This single-handled kitchen faucet has a cartridge under the handle. The cartridge has holes that mix the hot and cold water to deliver different temperatures depending on how the handle is turned. If it's worn or cracked, water will seep through to the spout.

How do you remove a single handle shower cartridge?

1:043:14How to Remove & Install the 1222 Cartridge - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipLoosen the handle adapter screw and remove the adapter. Pull off the key stop and adjustableMoreLoosen the handle adapter screw and remove the adapter. Pull off the key stop and adjustable temperature limit stop then the stop tube. Pull out the cartridge retaining clip with needle nose pliers.

How do you replace a one lever shower valve?

How to Replace Single Handle Shower FaucetTurn off the water to the shower.Remove handle and escutcheon plate to expose shower valve.Loosen locking nut with pliers and pull old cartridge from center of valve.Put new rubber seat with spring onto end of pencil and push into the valve.More items...

Why is my shower dripping when turned off?

More often than not, a dripping showerhead is the result of worn or damaged inner seals. The rubber washers or O-rings in your shower act as a seal between your showerhead and shower hose, preventing water from leaking out. Over time, these wear down, and when they do, water starts to leak out.

Why does my rain shower head drip hours after I turn it off?

The most common reason for rain shower heads to drip is due to the shower heads clogging over time, caused by limescale deposits as well as other minerals and bacteria.

How do you fix a dripping single handle Moen shower faucet?

0:2810:07How to fix a leaking Moen Shower - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipStep is you're going to verify that the water is in fact off by turning the handle. And this alsoMoreStep is you're going to verify that the water is in fact off by turning the handle. And this also will drain out any excess water that's inside the valve.

How do you take apart a single handle faucet?

0:062:44Repairing a Leaky Single Handle Ball-Type Faucet - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThis may require using an Allen wrench to loosen the handle. There may be a button that covers theMoreThis may require using an Allen wrench to loosen the handle. There may be a button that covers the screw that needs to be removed first and then you can loosen the screw and remove the lever handle.

How do you remove a single handle faucet?

1:096:35Replacing a single handle kitchen faucet - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd loosen the faucet itself there's two nuts holding the faucet on and I can actually reach it withMoreAnd loosen the faucet itself there's two nuts holding the faucet on and I can actually reach it with the wrench. Here once I get that I can loosen it up with by. My hand.

How do you fix a shower mixing valve?

2:326:09How to Replace a Shower Mixing Valve | This Old House - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd now we need to install the cap. Now the cap has a couple of small o-rings right here and thenMoreAnd now we need to install the cap. Now the cap has a couple of small o-rings right here and then there's a large one right here that has to be lubricated. With a little bit of plumber's grease.

How do you replace a shower valve stem?

1:157:15How to Repair a Shower Valve Stem | Ask This Old House - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipA good tip is to make sure you have something in the tub drain. So you don't drop it right down theMoreA good tip is to make sure you have something in the tub drain. So you don't drop it right down the drain. All right so there's that and what's behind here is a Phillips screw.

How do you disassemble a shower valve?

1:4914:09How to Repair a Moen Shower/Tub valve - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipOkay so let's see what we're gonna do first we're going to turn off the water. But in doing so we'reMoreOkay so let's see what we're gonna do first we're going to turn off the water. But in doing so we're gonna make sure that we're prepared to turn the water back on and what I mean by that before we

How do you turn on a single shower knob?

0:000:39How to turn on a shower with no pull tab - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipHere. There you have it so you have in that trouble you came here to find the answer. That's how toMoreHere. There you have it so you have in that trouble you came here to find the answer. That's how to do it just pull down on that blue knob.

What to do if shower is leaking?

If your shower is still leaking, you'll need to call a professional plumber. They can figure out what's causing the leak and fix it.

Where to find shower valve?

If you’re having trouble finding your shower valve, look in the room next to your shower. You may find the panel there.

What is the sleeve on a shower valve called?

Use your hands to carefully remove this sleeve, then set it aside for later. This sleeve is called an escutcheon.

How to replace a valve cartridge?

Fit a deep well socket wrench over the valve cartridge. The cartridge looks like a long cylinder with a metal rod sticking out of the top. Choose a deep well socket wrench that’s the right size for your cartridge, then slide it over the cartridge inside the valve. Turn it counter-clockwise to make sure it grips the cartridge. If the socket is too loose, choose the next size down.

How to remove a valve clip?

Use pliers to remove the locking clip if your valve has one. Look for the locking clip on the top of your valve. It will look like a metal rod, and the end should stick out of the top. If you see one, use a pair of needle-nose pliers to carefully pull it out. Set it to the side so you can replace it when you’re finished installing the new cartridge.

Where is the locking clip on a valve?

The locking clip should be visible on the top of the valve. They aren’t present on all valves, so don’t worry if you don’t see one.

Where is the water valve in a shower?

Your water valve controls the flow of water to your shower. It may be located in your bathroom or your basement. In some cases, it's behind a panel near your shower. Once you locate the valve, turn the knob clockwise to turn off the water.

How to fix a water cartridge that is leaking?

Inspect the cartridge, and if it's full of mineral deposits, soak it overnight in white vinegar to dissolve them. The deposits can prevent the cartridge from sealing out water and may be responsible for the leaks. If you notice pitting or cracking on the cartridge, replace it.

How to replace O rings on a washer?

Cut the old O-rings off the cartridge with a utility knife and replace them with new ones. Coat the new washers in plumber’s grease to make it easier to slide them on.

How to unscrew a cartridge?

Pull out the retaining pin that holds the cartridge with needle-nose pliers. Some cartridges are held by a collar that you can unscrew with adjustable pliers. Wrap a rag around the collar before unscrewing it to prevent damage to the finish.

Can you remove a cartridge from a faucet?

Cartridges can be stuck so completely that you may actually break one apart when you try to remove it with an extractor. If this happens, you can still extract the cartridge and save the faucet, but the best course of action is to call a plumber to help you do it.

How long does it take to repair a shower faucet?

Repair a shower faucet that won't shut off. Most single-handle, cartridge-style faucets can be repaired in an hour or less with basic tools.

How to get a hex screw out of a faucet?

Turn the hex screw by hand until it bottoms out. Snug up the hex nut by hand and tug on the cartridge puller handle. If the cartridge won't pull out, hold the puller handle steady and tighten the hex nut two full turns. Pull the cartridge out of the faucet body.

How to loosen a stuck cartridge?

Unscrew the hex screw and hex nut until threads are visible. Slide the puller over the cartridge stem, aligning the tool ears with the cartridge notches, and twist to loosen.

How much does it cost to replace a single handle faucet?

Replacement is the easiest way to fix cartridge-related problems. Time: 15 minutes to 1 hour. Cost: $20 to $100.

Why does my shower drip after turning off the water?

It’s normal for your shower to drip for a few minutes after the water is turned off. But a steady flow may indicate a leak. Replacing your faulty hardware is a common fix, but leaks can also be stopped by repairing your valve or stem. Here’s a quick rundown of simple repairs.

How to turn a stem counterclockwise?

Use pliers or a deep-socket wrench to gently turn the stem counterclockwise.

How to remove retainer clip from cartridge?

Use a screwdriver to remove the retainer clip at the top of the cartridge housing. Be sure not to lose this piece.

Where to take old faucet cartridges?

Take the old cartridge to the hardware store to ensure you get the right replacement. Cartridges are specific to faucet make a model.

How to remove a cartridge from a valve?

Remove the cartridge by gently pulling with pliers. Some manufacturers provide a cap that threads onto the valve to aid in removal. You may have to buy a cartridge removal tool if it’s stuck. Take the old cartridge to the hardware store to ensure you get the right replacement.

What is a stem on a faucet?

Common in two-handle faucets, stems are mechanisms that use threaded handles and rubber seals to open and close water lines. Installing a new stem is the easiest way to fix a malfunction, but you can an also replace faulty hardware like seals and O-rings.

What to do if your shower head is still leaking water?

If your closed shower head still drips water, do not over tighten the faucet. This action can damage the valve, which might lead to further problems. Cover the tub or shower floor with rags, especially when you are using the steps on how to fix a leaky shower head.

How to remove a faucet handle that is stuck?

Remove the handle with wriggling and pulling movements. If this component looks stuck, use a screwdriver or faucet puller.

Why does my shower head drip?

Before knowing how to fix a leaky shower head, you should know that this drip is because of faulty shower faucets or valves. These inner parts might be damaged or clogged by mineral deposits. They might also have parts that are old and worn out.

Why is my shower head making a noise?

Apart from making the occasional frustrating noise, these faulty fittings can increase your utility bill due to wastage of water and heat used.

How to open a faucet with a cap?

If you have a faucet with a cover cap that looks embedded, pry open with a thin screwdriver or pocket. Avoid nicking the surface of the material.

How to remove escutcheon trim plate?

Loosen the threaded sleeve and remove from the escutcheon trim plate. Ensure you turn the screwdriver with anticlockwise motion.

How to remove a valve stem?

Place the tool on the stem’s nut and rotate it anticlockwise. Ensure you use enough grease to get the nut moving. Once it is out, loosen the stem, and remove from the valve body.

How to check if a faucet is leaking?

To test to make sure the leak is fixed, turn on the water and let it run for a minute. Turn it off and check if the faucet is still leaking. If the faucet is still leaking, you might have another issue.

What to do if you have a leak in your drain pipe?

If you have a leak in the drain pipe, you can try to patch or re-seal the pipe using an epoxy, or you may have to replace the entire drain pipe if the pipe has too much damage .

How to unscrew a dome cap?

If you can't turn it by hand, place a towel over it and then try to unscrew it with an adjustable wrench to avoid damaging the finish. Now remove the retainer nut underneath the dome cap by twisting it counter clockwise by hand or very gently with a wrench. Place both the dome cap and retainer nut aside for later.

How to tighten a faucet supply line?

If it's at the point where your supply line connects with the faucet, there's a chance your supply line just needs tightened. Turn the water off at the angle stop, then take an adjustable wrench or groove joint pliers and carefully try to tighten the supply line nut until it feels snug.

How to fix a water cartridge?

First things first: go under your sink and turn off your water supply at the wall by turning the knob on the stop clockwise. Turn on your faucet to drain out residual water and also to check to make sure the water is completely off.

How to replace retainer nut on a spherical cylinder?

Replace the retainer nut first by turning it clockwise by hand. Next, put the dome cap back on and tighten clockwise by hand .

How to stop water from dripping under sink?

Start by turning on the cold water (usually the stop on the right side under the sink) first by turning the knob on the angle stop counter clockwise by hand. Now look carefully at the underside of your sink, particularly the connection points. If you see water dripping, try and figure out exactly where it's coming from.

What is a single handle faucet?

In a single-handle faucet, the handle causes the internal cartridge to rise or lower within the faucet body to start and stop the flow of water. Both hot and cold water flow into the same cartridge, and a turn of the handle controls the mixture and temperature. Two-handle cartridge faucets operate in a similar fashion, ...

How to shut off water valves?

In most cases, you will turn the handle clockwise to tighten it and shut it off. Make sure the valves are turned snugly tight. Other types of valves may have a lever handle that is closed by turning them perpendicular to the water line.

What is a cartridge faucet?

The cartridge faucet is a special type of washerless fixture commonly used in kitchens and bathrooms, and it's designed so that the cartridge insert is easy to replace when the faucet begins to drip and leak. Cartridge faucets come in both single-lever and two-handle versions, and various models use different types of plastic or brass-body ...

How to remove a clip from a sleeve?

Insert a flat-blade screwdriver behind the clip and gently pry it away from its retention slot. You can also try this with needle-nose pliers.​ Carefully remove the clip, then set it aside with other parts in the order it was removed.

How to remove a retainer nut?

If you see the retainer nut once the handle is removed, use channel-type pliers or an adjustable wrench to turn the retaining nut counter- clockwise and remove it. Set the nut aside.

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